Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
I began some deep breathing, leaning over the couch
My hubby inflated, the birth pool with air
In hopes that the midwives, soon would be there.

While our daughter was nestled, all snug in her bed,
I located the waterproof sheet from the shed.
And carefully placed it, (I hear waters can snap)
Over our bed, to takea short nap

Next from downstairs, arose such a clatter,
I rolled off of the bed, to see what was the matter.
away to the door, I hobbled between
contractions that made, me feel very green

My husband, through nerves, had neglected to see
the presents placed under the Christmas tree.
so, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a confused dad-to-be, with a face full of fear.

With an increase in nerves, and a baby so keen
We knew the moment had come, call the jubilee team!
More rapid than eagles, with pain relief she came,
Despite the awkward date: Cheryl by name!

Now try to relax, take deep breaths and count
Ill take your vitals and write an account
Why not walk up the stairs, or bounce on your ball
This could take a while, Ill be here through it all

Between each belly tightening, I declared it quite easy
Only during contractions, did I feel fairly queasy
So bowls were fetched, in case I needed to spew,
Not glamorous no, but Im being truthful with you

And then, in a twinkling, I heard up the stairs
Some prancing and dancing, Santas been she declares
And I held in the pain, and turned myself round,
Down the stairs little Harriet, came with a bound.

She was dressed in her jammies, so excited, oh bless her,
We decided the grandparents, place would be better.
The bundle of Toys, would just have to wait,
We promised her Christmas, but at later a date.

Next my waters were broken, and time it stood still
Rest and be thankful, Cheryl told me just chill
The pushing stage, would be tough as could be
But Id not be alone, and power to me

Well try as I might, with gritting of teeth
Our bundle of joy, was unwilling to leave
while a transfer to hospital, was my greatest fear
I was tired and grumpy, (swearing a lot- so I hear)

Though the journey was 10 mins, it felt like an hour
I cried and I winced and I felt Id lost power
But when we arrived, I gave it one final shot
And stuck-baby turned, (much to my shock)

Its a Boy cried my husband, with lots of dark hair
Overcome with emotion, I did nothing but stare
Finally here after nine month of waiting
So perfect, our Rupert (all 9lb 1 of-him)

Cheryl quietly worked, to her team gave call,
Were very grateful for, the support of them all.
She passed on her wishes, when she took her leave,
Happy Christmas to all, look at what youve achieved